Quarry expansion approved in Wheatland Township despite opposition

The Will County Board has approved a scaled-down expansion of a quarry in Wheatland Township. This decision was made on Thursday despite strong opposition from local residents and leaders from Bolingbrook and Plainfield. The owner of AZ Hard Rock, Artem Zakharov, purchased land for the expansion in 2022. The property is located near busy areas, just 1.5 miles from Naperville. Local officials, including Bolingbrook and Plainfield mayors, expressed their discontent after the vote, arguing that the board prioritized profits over community welfare. For months, residents protested against the quarry's expansion. More than 1,900 signed an online petition, and many sent emails or attended county board meetings to voice their concerns. Residents worry about increased noise, dust, and potential health risks from quarry operations. In response to the opposition, the company reduced the scope of the expansion plan by about 80%. The amended proposal now seeks a special use permit to operate on 120 acres of land, dropping plans for concrete and asphalt mixing. Company representatives promised to monitor air quality and reduce noise through various measures. The board discussed the plan for over five hours, with many residents attending and some wearing matching shirts stating, “Our Community, Our Future, No New Quarry.” Although some members supported the expansion as a necessary compromise, many residents like Alex Deo voiced concerns about health and safety. Opposition also noted the potential negative impact on nearby property values and highlighted that schools are located close to the proposed site. The Will County Land Use Department recommended denying the project, citing concerns such as persistent noise and vibrations impacting the community. While the quarry expansion has some supporters advocating for job creation, critics argue that the health and safety of local residents should come first. The decision reflects a clash between local economic development and community concerns for wellbeing.